DEFENDING Division 1 champions Berinsfield had to fight all the way before sealing a 2-1 victory against visitors East Hendred.

Berinsfield went in front when Max Palmer chased down a long ball and found David Murphy in space, who struck a half-volley into the corner.

Hendred drew level, when a long ball found Richard Claydon, who turned and looped a shot over Berinsfield keeper Tom Lovett.

And the home side secured victory ten minutes from time when Luke Holdsworth’s shot beat three defenders on the line to find the net.

Stanford-in-the-Vale ran out 5-1 winners against visitors Harwell Village.

Ryan Mason and Tyrun Mayall both scored twice, with Josh Vaughan also on target.

Harwell’s reply came courtesy of an own goal.

Saxton Rovers got off to a winning start, beating visitors Lambourn Sports 4-0.

Niall Hodgkins bagged a brace, with further goals coming from Dan Parry and Tom Stanley.

Westminster began with a 2-0 win at Long Wittenham, both goals coming from Mike Hooton.

Hanney United saw off visitors Steventon 3-0, thanks to goals from Matthew Woodside (2) and Joe Richardson.

In Division 2, Ardington got off to a brilliant start with a 7-1 thrashing of Wallingford Res.

Ben Matthews (2), Matthew Pedder (2), Luke Faircloth, Jason O’Hanlon and Jamie Gregory scored.

Wallingford’s consolation came from Simon Miles.

Sutton Courtenay made a winning start, running out 6-2 winners against Crowmarsh Gifford.

Rhys Griffiths and Jack Sewell both scored twice, with Sam Borland and Kieran Kerby also on the mark.

Crowmarsh hit back through Scott Gesner and Craig Duncan.

Compton defeated visitors Blewbury 5-1 thanks to doubles from Michael Butler and Benjamin Brzoska and a goal from Harry Thornton.

Jason McCable replied.

OTHER SCORERS

Div 2: Faringdon Tn Res 0, Saxton Rovers Res 2 (N Carter, C Spraggs); Watlington Tn 3 (J Little, A Holloway, J Armstrong), Kintbury Rgrs Res 1 (S Peacock).

Div 3: Drayton 3 (G Small, K DeFreitas, J Dennis), Chesley Utd 3 (H Hawkins 2, P McLaughlin); Hagbourne Utd 1 (E Short), Letcombe Res 1 (O Bishop).